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Sharpe & Donovan #4
Harbor Island
In this vivid and suspenseful addition to her widely acclaimed Sharpe & Donovan series, New York Times bestselling author Carla Neggers takes readers on a heart-stopping journey from Boston to Ireland to the rocky coast of Maine
Emma Sharpe, granddaughter of world-renowned art detective Wendell Sharpe, is a handpicked member of a small Boston-based FBI team. For the past decade Emma and her grandfather have been trailing an elusive serial art thief. The first heist was in Ireland, where an ancient Celtic cross was stolen. Now the Sharpes receive a replica of the cross after every new theft--reminding them of their continued failure to capture their prey.
When Emma receives a message that leads her to the body of a woman on a small island in Boston Harbor, she finds the victim holding a small, cross-inscribed stone--one she recognizes all too well. Emma's fiance, FBI deep-cover agent Colin Donovan, is troubled that she's gone off to the island alone, especially given the deadly turn the thief has taken. But as they dig deeper they are certain there is more to this murder than meets the eye.
As the danger escalates, Emma and Colin must also face do-or-die questions about their relationship. While there's no doubt they are in love, can they give their hearts and souls to their work and have anything left for each other? There's one thing Emma and Colin definitely agree on: before they can focus on their future, they must outwit one of the smartest, most ruthless killers they've ever encountered.
Emma Sharpe, granddaughter of world-renowned art detective Wendell Sharpe, is a handpicked member of a small Boston-based FBI team. For the past decade Emma and her grandfather have been trailing an elusive serial art thief. The first heist was in Ireland, where an ancient Celtic cross was stolen. Now the Sharpes receive a replica of the cross after every new theft--reminding them of their continued failure to capture their prey.
When Emma receives a message that leads her to the body of a woman on a small island in Boston Harbor, she finds the victim holding a small, cross-inscribed stone--one she recognizes all too well. Emma's fiance, FBI deep-cover agent Colin Donovan, is troubled that she's gone off to the island alone, especially given the deadly turn the thief has taken. But as they dig deeper they are certain there is more to this murder than meets the eye.
As the danger escalates, Emma and Colin must also face do-or-die questions about their relationship. While there's no doubt they are in love, can they give their hearts and souls to their work and have anything left for each other? There's one thing Emma and Colin definitely agree on: before they can focus on their future, they must outwit one of the smartest, most ruthless killers they've ever encountered.
347 pages, Hardcover
First published August 26, 2014
204 people are currently reading
1279 people want to read
About the author
Carla Neggers
143 books1,604 followersCarla Neggers is the New York Times bestselling author of the Sharpe & Donovan series featuring Boston-based FBI agents Emma Sharpe and Colin Donovan, and the popular Swift River Valley series set in the small, fictional New England town of Knights Bridge. With many bestsellers to her credit, Carla loves to write now as much as she did when she climbed a tree at age eleven with a pad and pen and spun stories perched on her favorite branch.
A native New Englander, Carla and her husband divide their time between their hilltop home in Vermont, a sofa bed at their kids' places in Boston and various inns, hotels and hideaways on their travels, frequently to Ireland.
Find out more and sign up for Carla's newsletter at CarlaNeggers.com.
A native New Englander, Carla and her husband divide their time between their hilltop home in Vermont, a sofa bed at their kids' places in Boston and various inns, hotels and hideaways on their travels, frequently to Ireland.
Find out more and sign up for Carla's newsletter at CarlaNeggers.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
November 15, 2014
Carla Neggers latest Emma Sharpe / Colin Donovan romantic suspense novel "Harbor Island" is typical of her work. There is a fair bit romantic interludes between couples, a tale of unrequited love, a murder, a bare ounce of investigation and then two pages before the end, a big reveal as to who the murderer is.
In other words, these are not books for you if you are a mystery fan. While there are two mysteries in the novel - who killed Rachel Bristol, a movie producer, who was investigating the Sharpe thief and the identity of the fabled Sharpe thief, who has stolen various art from Ireland and other international locations, the main action is instead centered on the relationships between the various couples in the novels. Neggers is adept at creating a suspenseful setting in which her various couples can deal with their relationships, in a romantic but shallow manner.
One couple is the Irish artist Aoife O'Byrne, who had a weekend fling with the Catholic priest Father Bracken, before he became a priest and has been pining for the priest for years now. They are thrown together during the investigation because the Sharpe thief stole art from O'Byrne's father, and there is some thought that O'Byrne might be in danger. This gives Neggers a chance to explore their relationship.
In addition, Neggers also focuses on Yank's relationship with his wife Lucy, and Colin's relationship with Emma, all while they sift the clues as to who murdered Rachel Bristol, and who could be the Sharpe thief.
Fans of Neggers will not be disappointed, but if you are looking for a mystery where there are actual clues instead of a big reveal at the end, this is not the book for you.
In other words, these are not books for you if you are a mystery fan. While there are two mysteries in the novel - who killed Rachel Bristol, a movie producer, who was investigating the Sharpe thief and the identity of the fabled Sharpe thief, who has stolen various art from Ireland and other international locations, the main action is instead centered on the relationships between the various couples in the novels. Neggers is adept at creating a suspenseful setting in which her various couples can deal with their relationships, in a romantic but shallow manner.
One couple is the Irish artist Aoife O'Byrne, who had a weekend fling with the Catholic priest Father Bracken, before he became a priest and has been pining for the priest for years now. They are thrown together during the investigation because the Sharpe thief stole art from O'Byrne's father, and there is some thought that O'Byrne might be in danger. This gives Neggers a chance to explore their relationship.
In addition, Neggers also focuses on Yank's relationship with his wife Lucy, and Colin's relationship with Emma, all while they sift the clues as to who murdered Rachel Bristol, and who could be the Sharpe thief.
Fans of Neggers will not be disappointed, but if you are looking for a mystery where there are actual clues instead of a big reveal at the end, this is not the book for you.
September 10, 2021
HARBOR ISLAND is the fourth book in the Sharpe & Donovan series and manages to tie up quite a few loose ends from earlier books in this series. Emma Sharpe and Colin Donovan are the main characters but a number of other characters have substantial roles in this story too.
Emma and Colin's boss Yank and his wife Lucy are in Ireland. Yank is investigating the thefts and Lucy almost becomes a victim.
Major roles also go to Father Fin Bracken and Aiofe O'Byrne. Fin has recently become a priest after tragically losing his wife and young daughters in a sailing accident. After their deaths and before he found his vocation, he was dealing with his grief by drinking too much. During that time he also had a brief relationship with Aiofe who was the niece of the man who was the first victim of the elusive thief that Emma's grandfather has been tracking for over ten years. Aoife is a well-known artist and she is still carrying a torch for Fin.
While the story is a great mystery, I was equally intrigued by the relationships in the story. Yank and his wife have been married for years but have somehow stopped communicating. This story gives them a chance to reconcile and decide what is important in each of their lives. Colin and Emma's relationship is new. He just asked her to marry him at the end of the last book and they haven't told their families yet. Since Colin is a deep cover agent for the FBI, their relationship has a number of hurdles that have to be worked out. Then there is Fin's relationship with his lost family and coming to terms with his loss and settling into his new vocation.
Along the way the characters are involved in a murder investigation when Rachel Bristol is murdered after calling Emma to meet with her. Rachel had been busy investigating the same case that has preoccupied Emma and her family. Her goal is to create a film inspired by those events. Also involved in film making are her ex-husband Travis and Travis's daughter Maisie who is the most successful of the three. Fears are that that thief is now escalating to murder.
Mystery fans who like long story arcs will enjoy this series. The characters are well-drawn and interesting people and we learn a lot about them through the course of these four novels. I enjoyed getting to know Emma, Colin and their friends and colleagues and can't wait to read more about them.
Emma and Colin's boss Yank and his wife Lucy are in Ireland. Yank is investigating the thefts and Lucy almost becomes a victim.
Major roles also go to Father Fin Bracken and Aiofe O'Byrne. Fin has recently become a priest after tragically losing his wife and young daughters in a sailing accident. After their deaths and before he found his vocation, he was dealing with his grief by drinking too much. During that time he also had a brief relationship with Aiofe who was the niece of the man who was the first victim of the elusive thief that Emma's grandfather has been tracking for over ten years. Aoife is a well-known artist and she is still carrying a torch for Fin.
While the story is a great mystery, I was equally intrigued by the relationships in the story. Yank and his wife have been married for years but have somehow stopped communicating. This story gives them a chance to reconcile and decide what is important in each of their lives. Colin and Emma's relationship is new. He just asked her to marry him at the end of the last book and they haven't told their families yet. Since Colin is a deep cover agent for the FBI, their relationship has a number of hurdles that have to be worked out. Then there is Fin's relationship with his lost family and coming to terms with his loss and settling into his new vocation.
Along the way the characters are involved in a murder investigation when Rachel Bristol is murdered after calling Emma to meet with her. Rachel had been busy investigating the same case that has preoccupied Emma and her family. Her goal is to create a film inspired by those events. Also involved in film making are her ex-husband Travis and Travis's daughter Maisie who is the most successful of the three. Fears are that that thief is now escalating to murder.
Mystery fans who like long story arcs will enjoy this series. The characters are well-drawn and interesting people and we learn a lot about them through the course of these four novels. I enjoyed getting to know Emma, Colin and their friends and colleagues and can't wait to read more about them.
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October 4, 2014DNR beyond page 142
[Read the bonus story, Rock Point, first since it occurs before the events in Harbor Island. (editing oversight in RP: ...grown/groan of pain!)]
There's so much to recommend about the premise and structure of the Sharpe & Donovan series: Emma's backstory and the ongoing revelations about past art thefts; Colin's backstory and the gradual unveiling of details about his brothers; vibrant renderings of New England's landscape and culture along with its connections to Europe and ancient history. It's this new writing style that C.N. has adopted in which the exact same facts are repeated as if all readers are sudden-onset amnesiacs from page to page; chapter to chapter. This makes the pace drag.
Another odd pattern in C.N.'s new writing style is having characters who are employees or coworkers act as if they're entitled to full disclosure of intimate details about employees' and other coworkers' personal lives. If a person is qualified for the position, legitimately clears all the background checks, and executes their duties with professional excellence, then that's all a worker owes to a job unless they choose to reveal more. (And these days nosy job mates can simply scour social media and sift through the results from assorted search engines to satisfy their curiosity.)
This is probably my last C.N. read, which is disappointing, but her backlist is a treasure trove of outstanding contemporary romantic suspense entertainment.
[Read the bonus story, Rock Point, first since it occurs before the events in Harbor Island. (editing oversight in RP: ...grown/groan of pain!)]
There's so much to recommend about the premise and structure of the Sharpe & Donovan series: Emma's backstory and the ongoing revelations about past art thefts; Colin's backstory and the gradual unveiling of details about his brothers; vibrant renderings of New England's landscape and culture along with its connections to Europe and ancient history. It's this new writing style that C.N. has adopted in which the exact same facts are repeated as if all readers are sudden-onset amnesiacs from page to page; chapter to chapter. This makes the pace drag.
Another odd pattern in C.N.'s new writing style is having characters who are employees or coworkers act as if they're entitled to full disclosure of intimate details about employees' and other coworkers' personal lives. If a person is qualified for the position, legitimately clears all the background checks, and executes their duties with professional excellence, then that's all a worker owes to a job unless they choose to reveal more. (And these days nosy job mates can simply scour social media and sift through the results from assorted search engines to satisfy their curiosity.)
This is probably my last C.N. read, which is disappointing, but her backlist is a treasure trove of outstanding contemporary romantic suspense entertainment.
December 27, 2019
Harbor Island by Carla Neggers has Emma and Colin investigating a murder close to home in Boston. Another complex mystery that kept me turning the pages.
July 16, 2020
Harbor Island was another great installment in the Sharpe & Donovan series with a plot that directly ties into the previous novel, Declan's Cross.
For the past ten years Emma Sharpe and her grandfather, world-renowned art detective Wendell Sharpe, have been chasing a thief who taunts them with a replica of the first item stolen, an ancient Celtic cross. As a member of an elite FBI team, Emma knows a thing or two about catching criminals, but this thief continues to elude her. When Emma receives a call from a woman claiming to have information on her thief, she heads to a small island in Boston Harbor only to find the woman’s body. With the stakes higher than ever, Emma teams up with her fiancé, fellow FBI agent Colin Donovan to find the killer before they strike again.
The art thief Emma and Colin are chasing in this book was introduced in the previous book, Declan's Cross. I liked that this book was a continuation of that storyline as I enjoyed that plot in Declan's Cross and I didn’t want to have to wait several books for it to be resolved. The dead woman Emma finds only added to the intrigue as you don’t initially know how the woman is connected with the theft cases and you’re left wondering if the thief is the killer or someone else close to the woman. There’s a bit of action at the end of the book to keep things exciting and the final reveal was well done. Overall I thought the mystery was well done and I was happy to get resolution to the thief storyline.
Emma and Colin’s relationship goes in an interesting direction in this book. While it’s clear the pair obviously love each other, the demanding nature of their jobs has forced them to wonder whether or not they have enough left at the end of the day for a real life together. Both Emma and Colin are used to keeping secrets and they’re finding it a hard habit to break even when it comes to each other. Honestly their secretive natures is the one complaint I have about their relationship. I understand that their job means they can’t tell each other everything, but I find at times they simply strayed into not telling each other something solely because they didn’t think of the other person. Outside of that though, their relationship continues to be fantastic and I’m excited to see where it goes in future books.
Harbor Island was another favorite of mine in the series thus far and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Keeper's Reach, soon.
For the past ten years Emma Sharpe and her grandfather, world-renowned art detective Wendell Sharpe, have been chasing a thief who taunts them with a replica of the first item stolen, an ancient Celtic cross. As a member of an elite FBI team, Emma knows a thing or two about catching criminals, but this thief continues to elude her. When Emma receives a call from a woman claiming to have information on her thief, she heads to a small island in Boston Harbor only to find the woman’s body. With the stakes higher than ever, Emma teams up with her fiancé, fellow FBI agent Colin Donovan to find the killer before they strike again.
The art thief Emma and Colin are chasing in this book was introduced in the previous book, Declan's Cross. I liked that this book was a continuation of that storyline as I enjoyed that plot in Declan's Cross and I didn’t want to have to wait several books for it to be resolved. The dead woman Emma finds only added to the intrigue as you don’t initially know how the woman is connected with the theft cases and you’re left wondering if the thief is the killer or someone else close to the woman. There’s a bit of action at the end of the book to keep things exciting and the final reveal was well done. Overall I thought the mystery was well done and I was happy to get resolution to the thief storyline.
Emma and Colin’s relationship goes in an interesting direction in this book. While it’s clear the pair obviously love each other, the demanding nature of their jobs has forced them to wonder whether or not they have enough left at the end of the day for a real life together. Both Emma and Colin are used to keeping secrets and they’re finding it a hard habit to break even when it comes to each other. Honestly their secretive natures is the one complaint I have about their relationship. I understand that their job means they can’t tell each other everything, but I find at times they simply strayed into not telling each other something solely because they didn’t think of the other person. Outside of that though, their relationship continues to be fantastic and I’m excited to see where it goes in future books.
Harbor Island was another favorite of mine in the series thus far and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Keeper's Reach, soon.
August 26, 2014
4 STARS
I like the Sharpe & Dovovan series of books. This has a lot of the same characters and a few more new ones. It has a lot of different strings that they pull together to solve the different crimes. Lots of mystery, little action, lots of relationships and some love scenes.
The setting of this book takes place all over from Ireland, England, Boston and Maine. From country to big cities.
Colin Donovan a FBI Agent often goes deep undercover.
Emma Sharpe has a varied career from Nun to working in family art recovery firm to FBI Agent.
Emma and Colin are now working together and love each other they don't know what the future will bring. Emma gets a phone call to meet on a small island in Boston Harbor. She finds a connection to the art thief they are chasing and her contact murdered.
Emma's Grandfather has been chasing this art thief for over 10 years. He now lives in Ireland and has a branch of his company out of Maine where Emma's brother is working.
Sometimes it is hard to go from one string of the plot to another. It ties everything in by the end of the story. This is one series that would be best to read in order. You can read them alone but better together. So far I have read them all but Rockport #.05. I do want to go read it sometime though.
I like how Carla Neggers tells stories. I plan to read more from her in the future.
I was given this ebook to read and in return agreed to give honest review of it. Received it through Net Galley.
I like the Sharpe & Dovovan series of books. This has a lot of the same characters and a few more new ones. It has a lot of different strings that they pull together to solve the different crimes. Lots of mystery, little action, lots of relationships and some love scenes.
The setting of this book takes place all over from Ireland, England, Boston and Maine. From country to big cities.
Colin Donovan a FBI Agent often goes deep undercover.
Emma Sharpe has a varied career from Nun to working in family art recovery firm to FBI Agent.
Emma and Colin are now working together and love each other they don't know what the future will bring. Emma gets a phone call to meet on a small island in Boston Harbor. She finds a connection to the art thief they are chasing and her contact murdered.
Emma's Grandfather has been chasing this art thief for over 10 years. He now lives in Ireland and has a branch of his company out of Maine where Emma's brother is working.
Sometimes it is hard to go from one string of the plot to another. It ties everything in by the end of the story. This is one series that would be best to read in order. You can read them alone but better together. So far I have read them all but Rockport #.05. I do want to go read it sometime though.
I like how Carla Neggers tells stories. I plan to read more from her in the future.
I was given this ebook to read and in return agreed to give honest review of it. Received it through Net Galley.
January 21, 2019
I really enjoy this series. It also includes a bonus short story featuring Finian that I was excited to read. Love following Emma and Colin as they solve murders. This journey expands to different locales which makes it unique from other suspense novels.
August 23, 2016
The whole Sharpe & Donovan series seems to have a overarching mystery to solve and is focused on the ongoing relationship of Emma Sharpe and Colin Donovan, both currently FBI agents, but each with unique and interesting backstories. The cast of characters is diverse and interesting, including a priest, nuns, Ireland and assorted characters there, art detectives and salt of the earth Mainers. Fantastic framework on which to create a great series. Alas, it just doesn't seem to work. The series as a whole is disjointed and repeats previous information to the point of losing the flow of the current mystery to be solved. Add to that the over the top angst at times and I just want to toss the book.
The overarching mystery has to do with an art thief who 10 years ago broke into a home in a small village on the remote coast of Ireland. The case is still unsolved, but pops up in each book. Before a new heist, the thief sends a stone carving of St, Declan's cross to Emma's grandfather and others. This time a lot of people got crosses and one of crosses is found by Emma in the hand of a dead woman on a private island in Boston Harbor, the current mystery to solve - who killed her and why.
There are too many pieces to this puzzle floating around they only come together at the very end, but not all the pieces fit in this particular murder puzzle. My main compliant is that dialogue and observations often leave me with a "what the heck?" feeling that totally breaks the reading flow and throws me out of the story. I loved Carla Neggers' early stuff, hate her recent books.
The overarching mystery has to do with an art thief who 10 years ago broke into a home in a small village on the remote coast of Ireland. The case is still unsolved, but pops up in each book. Before a new heist, the thief sends a stone carving of St, Declan's cross to Emma's grandfather and others. This time a lot of people got crosses and one of crosses is found by Emma in the hand of a dead woman on a private island in Boston Harbor, the current mystery to solve - who killed her and why.
There are too many pieces to this puzzle floating around they only come together at the very end, but not all the pieces fit in this particular murder puzzle. My main compliant is that dialogue and observations often leave me with a "what the heck?" feeling that totally breaks the reading flow and throws me out of the story. I loved Carla Neggers' early stuff, hate her recent books.
September 1, 2014
I've read all of the Sharpe & Donovan books and have enjoyed all of them. This latest book, Harbor Island, is a very good addition to the series.
As in all the books, there are visits to Ireland and Maine, as well as the home base of their FBI unit, Boston. Emma Sharpe and Colin Donovan are still on the trail of the unknown art thief mentioned in the last few books and while Emma's grandfather and brother are again brought into the story, this book focuses more on new characters, but does utilize some of the characters we've met in other books.
I would give this book 4.5 stars if there was an option for that because I felt parts of the book lagged. I haven't felt that way about the other books in this series and I'm not sure what caused that feeling, but I think some parts could have been condensed or written more tightly. I'm not an author and probably am not explaining it very well, but there were sections in Harbor Island that I just skimmed through because it was lagging and I've not done that in any of the other Sharpe & Donovan series.
This is a good story and I would recommend it.
As in all the books, there are visits to Ireland and Maine, as well as the home base of their FBI unit, Boston. Emma Sharpe and Colin Donovan are still on the trail of the unknown art thief mentioned in the last few books and while Emma's grandfather and brother are again brought into the story, this book focuses more on new characters, but does utilize some of the characters we've met in other books.
I would give this book 4.5 stars if there was an option for that because I felt parts of the book lagged. I haven't felt that way about the other books in this series and I'm not sure what caused that feeling, but I think some parts could have been condensed or written more tightly. I'm not an author and probably am not explaining it very well, but there were sections in Harbor Island that I just skimmed through because it was lagging and I've not done that in any of the other Sharpe & Donovan series.
This is a good story and I would recommend it.
September 15, 2014
This is the second book I have read in this series, Sharpe and Donovan, the first being Declan's Cross. Even though this was only the second that I read, It was easy to follow. Emma Sharpe is an FBI agent who is investigating a most prolific art thief when she gets a phone call from a woman wanting to meet her on a Boston island. When she gets there she finds the woman dead and may become a likely victim herself. Colin Donovan who is Emma's love interest, will do whatever it takes to protect her and help her find out who the killer is. Is Emma next or anyone else of family and friends? They need to work fast to outwit and capture this person. With scenarios in England, Ireland, Boston and Maine, this story will keep you on the edge of your seat. Great characterization and writing. I am never disappointed in Carla Neggers work! I am never disappointed in Ms.Neggers novels.
If you love a good mystery and true to life characters, than you will love this series!
If you love a good mystery and true to life characters, than you will love this series!
October 13, 2014
I liked Emma. She was quick to think and react on her feet. She did not lose her cool. The relationship with her and her fiance, Colin was good. I could tell that they did love each other. I probably would have felt stronger about it had I been following this series since the beginning and getting to know Emma and Colin better to see their relationship grow. Although, I was still able to jump right into this book with no problems. My problem was that the plotline was kind of predictable. Also, it was nice and steady. Which is not always a bad thing to have predictable and steady but I was just looking for a little more action and a few twists. However I did like this book enough that I will be reading more books again by this author. This is another author where I had lost my way with and had taken a break. Looks like it is time to get back in the reading game with Carla Neggers.
September 2, 2014
I'm a huge fan of the Sharpe and Donovan series and this book did not disappoint. We pick up a few days after the last book ends with Emma and Colin back in Boston. We get to see old friends from previous books and meet a new coworker, Sam. The book moves fast and continues the art thief story. We get to meet Yank's wife, Lucy, and learn a little about them. Father Finian Bracken also plays a large role in the story. We get to learn more about his past and wonder about his future. We also learn that there will be a new Director coming into the FBI. Based on clues given, I think we can expect the next book to have Colin undercover again. Emma and Colin were wonderful. I love them more with every book. I hope the author will keep them coming.
September 2, 2014
Just loved this latest book in the Sharpe and Donovan series. Can't wait for the next one.
September 19, 2016
Two-haiku review:
Sharpe finds dead woman
Declan's cross stone in her hand
Related to thefts?
Multiple plots, still
Finally mystery solved
Enough of series
3-1/2 stars
Sharpe finds dead woman
Declan's cross stone in her hand
Related to thefts?
Multiple plots, still
Finally mystery solved
Enough of series
3-1/2 stars
January 31, 2017
Interesting plot and well narrated. Recommended
November 19, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Emma Sharpe, granddaughter of world-renowned art detective Wendell Sharpe, is a handpicked member of a small Boston-based FBI team. For the past decade Emma and her grandfather have been trailing an elusive serial art thief. The first heist was in Ireland, where an ancient Celtic cross was stolen. Now the Sharpes receive a replica of the cross after every new theft—reminding them of their continued failure to capture their prey.
When Emma receives a message that leads her to the body of a woman on a small island in Boston Harbor, she finds the victim holding a small, cross-inscribed stone—one she recognizes all too well. Emma's fiancé, FBI deep-cover agent Colin Donovan, is troubled that she's gone off to the island alone, especially given the deadly turn the thief has taken. But as they dig deeper they are certain there is more to this murder than meets the eye.
As the danger escalates, Emma and Colin must also face do-or-die questions about their relationship. While there's no doubt they are in love, can they give their hearts and souls to their work and have anything left for each other? There's one thing Emma and Colin definitely agree on: before they can focus on their future, they must outwit one of the smartest, most ruthless killers they've ever encountered.
This is the fourth book in the Emma Sharpe / Colin Donovan romantic suspense series. I haven't read any others but I don't think it is terribly important that you do...
I have always been a bit of a fan of romantic suspense novels - especially if the mysteries that are trying to be solved are tight. The stories of the murder of Rachel Bristol, and the identity of the Sharpe art thief (who is, conveniently, being investigated by Bristol) are superficially dealt with. I thought there could have been so much more to the investigations but it seemed to me that the relationships between various characters took precedence.
As for the suspense, that seemed to be kept back for how the couples deal with their relationships, rather than the actual investigation.
Two mysteries combine here to give this romantic suspense novel a little bit of grunt, but otherwise it seems to be more about couples making out than any investigation.
Paul
ARH
Emma Sharpe, granddaughter of world-renowned art detective Wendell Sharpe, is a handpicked member of a small Boston-based FBI team. For the past decade Emma and her grandfather have been trailing an elusive serial art thief. The first heist was in Ireland, where an ancient Celtic cross was stolen. Now the Sharpes receive a replica of the cross after every new theft—reminding them of their continued failure to capture their prey.
When Emma receives a message that leads her to the body of a woman on a small island in Boston Harbor, she finds the victim holding a small, cross-inscribed stone—one she recognizes all too well. Emma's fiancé, FBI deep-cover agent Colin Donovan, is troubled that she's gone off to the island alone, especially given the deadly turn the thief has taken. But as they dig deeper they are certain there is more to this murder than meets the eye.
As the danger escalates, Emma and Colin must also face do-or-die questions about their relationship. While there's no doubt they are in love, can they give their hearts and souls to their work and have anything left for each other? There's one thing Emma and Colin definitely agree on: before they can focus on their future, they must outwit one of the smartest, most ruthless killers they've ever encountered.
This is the fourth book in the Emma Sharpe / Colin Donovan romantic suspense series. I haven't read any others but I don't think it is terribly important that you do...
I have always been a bit of a fan of romantic suspense novels - especially if the mysteries that are trying to be solved are tight. The stories of the murder of Rachel Bristol, and the identity of the Sharpe art thief (who is, conveniently, being investigated by Bristol) are superficially dealt with. I thought there could have been so much more to the investigations but it seemed to me that the relationships between various characters took precedence.
As for the suspense, that seemed to be kept back for how the couples deal with their relationships, rather than the actual investigation.
Two mysteries combine here to give this romantic suspense novel a little bit of grunt, but otherwise it seems to be more about couples making out than any investigation.
Paul
ARH
December 27, 2019
Harbor Island by Carla Neggers is one third mystery, one third romance, and one third suspense. Its story is centered around an art thief who is playing with the federal FBI agents. Taunting them constantly...the FBI are still not able to catch the culprit. Only now, he or she has resorted to murder and theft.
I really enjoyed the cast of characters. A bit of humor but packed with a whole lot of background story. Once I got past the initial background, the rest of the book was great. Just like a romantic suspense tale should be. But the beginning was tedious.
An art thief stealing an ancient artifact. A cross from some Irish saint. With each theft, there is something left behind for the authorities to find. An art family has been digging into the mystery theft for a long time. No hints or details leading them to the culprit. Now, the FBI are being toyed with and the danger has escalated. These agents won't rest until the person is caught.
I enjoyed this entertaining book. I am a huge fan of Carla Neggers novels. This one was good but could have used a lot less background story on the characters. Start with the immediate danger like her other novels and this one would have been a five-star book easily.
I bought this copy from Harlequin. This is my voluntary review.
I really enjoyed the cast of characters. A bit of humor but packed with a whole lot of background story. Once I got past the initial background, the rest of the book was great. Just like a romantic suspense tale should be. But the beginning was tedious.
An art thief stealing an ancient artifact. A cross from some Irish saint. With each theft, there is something left behind for the authorities to find. An art family has been digging into the mystery theft for a long time. No hints or details leading them to the culprit. Now, the FBI are being toyed with and the danger has escalated. These agents won't rest until the person is caught.
I enjoyed this entertaining book. I am a huge fan of Carla Neggers novels. This one was good but could have used a lot less background story on the characters. Start with the immediate danger like her other novels and this one would have been a five-star book easily.
I bought this copy from Harlequin. This is my voluntary review.
February 26, 2021
I was very disappointed. I wanted to read Rock Point, a prequel about Finian. The only way it was available to me was as a bonus in book 4. I dutifully read books 2, 3, and 4. They were enjoyable and not a waste of time. But the only way I could get Rock Point was in e-book format as part of book 4. Although the cover clearly stated it contained Rock Point, I got to the end and there were no more pages and no bonus novella. This was interesting enough, trips back and forth between Ireland and Boston. These are a little too much romance and not enough mystery for me. I got a little tired of the strong, silent FBI men scooping their lady loves up in their arms and effortlessly carrying them off to the bedroom. At least Emma is a strong, intelligent female character, not a wilting damsel in distress.
June 2, 2021
Reading the cover made me really want to read this one, but truthfully I didn't find it very suspenseful at all. Also, for two people recently engaged, I found Sharpe and Donavan more like cardboard cut outs with little emotion. I realize this was book 4 in the series but thought that I could read this one as a stand alone. Honestly, I found it kind of boring even after reading over 200 pages of it. I was disappointed especially after seeing the ratings and reviews of others and didn't bother to read the bonus added novella included. Too bad!
August 23, 2021
Another entry in the Sharpe and Donovan series. They are now engaged and still solving murders while traveling between Ireland and Maine/Massachusetts. This one gives us the identity of the art thief they have been "chasing" for a decade. Unfortunately, Emma finds a murder victim who had invited her to the site, holding one of those crosses that the art thief sends to the Sharpes after each heist. The murder victim was eager to film a story about the art thefts and seemed to know who the art thief is. Then it gets quite convoluted as the story evolves.
October 27, 2025
Emma Sharpe, previously an ex-nun and private art detective, had joined the FBI with her keen eyes for detail.
She received a call to meet for unknown information only to be caught under fire.
A dead informant holding the calling card from an age-old nemesis has brought her Irish history stateside.
Would she finally catch her Moriarty character or lose more than she bargained for?
The author spent more attention to all the characters' relationships versus actual investigative work upon mystery solving.
Noted that the book is in the romance genre.
She received a call to meet for unknown information only to be caught under fire.
A dead informant holding the calling card from an age-old nemesis has brought her Irish history stateside.
Would she finally catch her Moriarty character or lose more than she bargained for?
The author spent more attention to all the characters' relationships versus actual investigative work upon mystery solving.
Noted that the book is in the romance genre.
August 16, 2025
The fourth novel of the amazing FBI agents, a former nun and a former lobsterman, romance and search for an art thief. Harbor Island leads these two agents and the reader from Boston to Ireland, with action, adventure and a threat of danger. Unfolded in these pages the reader gets to know each of their fellow team members and understand the mind of the art thief too.
November 4, 2025
2. I was mildly into the series, I like a series and it was entertaining enough. But this book was really weak. The plot made very little sense and nothing really happened. Very flat and really kind of boring considering it's supposed to be suspense/msytery. It is like there is no stakes to anything and none of the characters care at all what happens. I'll read another one to see.
May 31, 2018
I’ve enjoyed the others in the series, but each book gets progressively more boring & redundant. 4 books in and we’ve only had like 6 months of life with the characters. Anyway. I actually just skipped to the end to read whodunit & am calling it good.
May 24, 2020
Again, loved the location connections with this series between Boston-Ireland-Maine, however needed to keep my eye on the spot I was at to clarify characters. "Declan's Cross" still my favorite out of this series. Emma & Colin my favorites characters
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 17, 2021
Some of these books of this series are better than others. This one was pretty good.
It continues the story that started 4 books ago and still not finished, although this one gives us a good idea who the art thief is. I like these books mostly because they are light and easy to read.
It continues the story that started 4 books ago and still not finished, although this one gives us a good idea who the art thief is. I like these books mostly because they are light and easy to read.
July 4, 2025
the happy couple
Emma and Colin are a couple of FBI agents that are engaged! Now throw in a mystery of stolen paintings and Celtic crosses and Boston, Ireland, and Maine. Interesting people who may be quilty and a murder too! Moves right along and you can’t put it down!!
Emma and Colin are a couple of FBI agents that are engaged! Now throw in a mystery of stolen paintings and Celtic crosses and Boston, Ireland, and Maine. Interesting people who may be quilty and a murder too! Moves right along and you can’t put it down!!
July 8, 2025
Complex plot
I've always loved this author's books set in New England. The Irish connection is an added bonus. Great characters, setting, and wonderful suspense and of course the romance with a very complex p!ot.
I've always loved this author's books set in New England. The Irish connection is an added bonus. Great characters, setting, and wonderful suspense and of course the romance with a very complex p!ot.
February 4, 2018
What can I say, I think this series just gets better with each book I read. Do read the series in order as there are a lot of intertwined threads throughout.
March 25, 2020
I think I'm done with this series. While the books have been ok, there are too many things that irritate me and they are growing with each book.
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